There are a few reasons you might be looking for somewhere your loved one can stay when not at home. Perhaps they have specific health needs that you can’t always fulfill, or maybe it’s no longer safe for them to live in their own home. Whatever the case may be, take a look at some of the most important factors to consider when choosing a home away from home that your loved one will appreciate.
Proximity
Think about how far you will need to travel to take your loved one to their new home. The distance from their care home to your home should be a significant consideration if you intend to make time for regular visits. This will also factor into how familiar your loved one is with the area and how quickly they’ll be able to settle in.
Facilities
What can each care home offer that makes it stand out from the rest? Which types of facilities are most important to your loved one? Signature Care Homes, for example, make sure to offer a wide range of facilities to meet the needs of every resident. Does your loved one want somewhere with a hair salon? A movie room? Daily activities and entertainment? These details are what make a great care home stand out from a merely good care home.
Security
Safety and security should be top priorities when looking for a care home. Your loved one deserves to feel safe wherever they live, so look for care homes that prioritize resident security. Ask the staff about the security measures that are in place to protect residents from possible threats like intruders or thieves.
Staff
The people who run a care home are the key to whether or not it’s a good place to live. Meet with the staff to find out how the care home is run and what your loved one can expect if they choose to move there.
Cost
The price of a care home varies hugely depending on where you look and what you are looking for. High-end, luxury residential homes cost more since they offer more to their residents. Think about what’s affordable, what’s appropriate, and what’s necessary to protect your loved one and keep them happy.
Accessibility
If your loved one has mobility difficulties, they will need to look for care homes that are designed to accommodate for people who need extra support in this area. Does the care home have wide doors and ramps for wheelchair users? Are there safe methods of moving a wheelchair between levels?
Whether you are looking for somewhere that can offer occasional respite, professional healthcare, or ongoing residential care, it’s important to weigh up all the factors before making a decision. Think about how easy it will be to visit, what the care home can offer, how much it costs, and how safe it is. These are the most significant considerations to bear in mind when choosing somewhere for your loved one to stay.
Photo by Scott Webb.
